Kathmandu witnessed a surge of violence on Tuesday as protests spiraled out of control. Demonstrators set fire to multiple properties, including the home of former prime minister Jhalanath Khanal. His wife, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, sustained severe burn injuries in the attack.
Chitrakar was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital in critical condition. Initial reports falsely suggested her death. Sources later confirmed she is recovering and receiving intensive care.
The attack highlights the scale of unrest that has gripped the Himalayan nation. The protests initially began as demonstrations against a controversial social media ban. They have now escalated into a full-blown political crisis.
Oli Resigns Amid Escalating Protests
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday as the protests intensified. Oli’s own residence was targeted and set on fire, signaling a breakdown of law and order. The violence has shaken Nepal’s political class, exposing deep public anger over corruption and governance failures.
Oli’s government introduced a short-lived ban on social media, triggering nationwide backlash. Protesters argue that the ban was an attempt to stifle dissent. What began as opposition to the ban has now turned into a movement against corruption and political mismanagement.
Brutal Attack on Finance Minister
A disturbing video surfaced from the streets of Kathmandu on Tuesday. It showed Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel being chased, kicked, and thrashed by protesters. The 65-year-old minister barely escaped with his life as police struggled to control the mob.
This violent attack underscores the collapse of security in the capital. It also reflects the anger brewing among ordinary citizens. Nepal’s political elite are now facing unprecedented backlash over years of instability and economic struggles.
Growing Anger Over Corruption
The protests are no longer limited to the social media ban. They have expanded to address accusations of corruption and misuse of power by political leaders. Additionally, citizens have expressed frustration over rising unemployment, inflation, and lack of governance.
Demonstrations have spread beyond Kathmandu, with reports of unrest in major cities and border areas. Analysts warn that Nepal could be on the brink of a deeper political and economic crisis if the unrest is not addressed swiftly.
Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar’s Condition Stable
Despite earlier reports of her death, doctors have confirmed that Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar is stable. She is undergoing treatment for burns and smoke inhalation. Hospital staff at Kirtipur Burn Hospital have placed her under strict medical supervision.
The attack on Khanal’s family has sparked outrage across political circles. Many have condemned the violence while urging for peace and dialogue. Khanal, who served as Nepal’s prime minister from 2011 to 2012, has remained largely out of politics in recent years.
Nepal Faces a Leadership Vacuum
With Oli’s resignation, Nepal now faces a leadership vacuum at a critical time. Moreover, the protests have created a volatile environment. However, leaving the country’s political future uncertain.
The government has yet to announce a successor. Opposition leaders are calling for an interim government to restore stability. However, the scale of unrest suggests that any resolution will require addressing long-standing grievances.
A Call for Calm and Reform
International observers have expressed concern over the violence. Human rights groups are urging Nepal’s leaders to prioritize dialogue over force. Analysts argue that the crisis presents an opportunity for meaningful reforms in governance and anti-corruption measures.
As the country grapples with chaos, citizens are demanding accountability from political leaders. The events of Tuesday mark one of the darkest days in Nepal’s recent history, underscoring the urgent need for stability.